Can You renew your car registration without a smog check?
Allow us to explain… You may pay your vehicle registration renewal fees now without a smog check, but you’ll receive your new registration card and sticker after a passing smog check is obtained.
How does the DMV check a smog certificate?
When the DMV receives your payment, they will check to see if a valid smog certificate is on record and not before that. The DMV will not check if a valid smog is on record when generating the renewal notice. The validity of the smog certificate only comes into play at the time you make your registration renewal payment.
How long is a smog certificate valid in California?
The validity of the smog certificate only comes into play at the time you make your registration renewal payment. A California smog certificate is only valid for 90 days from its issuance.
How old do you have to be to get a smog check?
They will use the VID to determine what type of smog inspection your vehicle requires (STAR or regular) and also whether your vehicle even requires a smog check (is the vehicle less than 8 years old? No smog check required). They will not check whether a valid certificate is on record.
What states have no smog checks?
For quick reference, the states that do not include smog/emissions testing currently includes: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, West Virginia and Wyoming.
How do I Check my smog status?
To figure out if your car needs a smog check, visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) smog check website. Select your state and see which counties in that state have mandatory smog checks. Tip: Oftentimes, you will get an alert in the mail when you need to have a smog check. This alert may come with your registration reminder.
How often to need smog check?
A smog check is required every other year, unless the vehicle is 6 or fewer model years old. A smog check is also required to transfer ownership, unless the vehicle is 4 or fewer model years old.
What paperwork do I need to get a smog check?
Your state will notify you when a smog check is due. Generally, states require tests every two years. Before leaving the house, have the following documents: Car registration certificate. Drivers license. Proof of insurance. Proper payment to cover the smog check fee. Some stations may not accept checks and/or credit cards.